Evaluation of a multiplex PCR-based reverse line blot-hybridization assay for identification of serotype and surface protein antigens of Streptococcus agalactiae.

A 33-primer multiplex PCR-based reverse line blot (mPCR/RLB) assay was developed to identify Streptococcus agalactiae serotypes and surface protein antigen genes simultaneously. It was evaluated by using 551 clinical isolates. The mPCR/RLB assay was more sensitive than conventional serotyping, especially for protein antigen typing, but otherwise the results correlated well.